Justin Morrow was Toronto FC’s most reliable player in 2014.
That isn’t a bold leap or hyperbole. Morrow was consistent and dependable at left back, providing steady play for a backline that dealt with a number of injuries throughout the season.
Morrow and Collen Warner spent the last week training with Werder Bremen. Through Toronto FC’s relationship with Torsten Frings, a Grün-Weißen legend, the American duo were able to experience a different vibe in terms both professional and personal.
Morrow spoke about his experience in Germany with torontofc.ca.
Devang Desai: After a long season it would be reasonable to relax for a bit before jumping back into training. Was there any hesitation in terms of making the trip?
Justin Morrow: I didn't have any reservations about making the trip to Bremen. I was fortunate enough to have made it through a large part of the season injury free so my body felt good at the end. Also, this is a time when a few MLS teams are still playing so it's good to know the type of mentally that's necessary to push it for another month after the regular season. On top of all that, Bremen is a big club so I was very excited about the opportunity to test myself.
DD: What were the biggest day-to-day differences In terms of training? Were the philosophies radically different?
JM: I would say that the differences in trainings between Bremen and Toronto were minor in some ways, and large in others. The actual drills, games, etc. set up by the coaches were quite similar to Toronto. The practices didn't last any longer and they weren't "harder" or more "intense" at all. I would say the major differences lie in the way the players approach the game. I think the players see the game quicker but don't necessarily play quicker. I would imagine that is common throughout European football. More specific to the German style of play is the way they focus on detail. For example, the way they are clinical in front of goal.
DD: Werder Bremen is a club with an exceptional history. What was it like being in a town with such a special relationship with its soccer club?
JM: I really didn't know what to expect from the city of Bremen but I was pleasantly surprised. Obviously a small town but everyone was really nice. They were very patient at restaurants when we couldn't understand the German menu. (This was a common occurrence) Most of all, it was fun to be in a town where football meant so much to the people. Football is very clearly a major part of their culture.
DD: Did you have a chance interact with Torsten? As a player what did this mean for you, to have this opportunity?
JM: Torsten was so nice to set everything up for us. He didn't really know Collen or myself so he did it basically as a favor to the club. Seeing how well he treated us made me wish we had played together because I can tell he would be a great teammate. It goes without saying that he is a legend and this opportunity was a dream.
DD: Kraftwerk, Oktoberfest and schnitzel. We’ve heard it all when it comes to Germany. What was your favorite experience, non-soccer wise?
JM: Before this trip I had only been to London. I want to travel all over Europe at some point but it was great to get a taste of something so different. Bremen is a quaint town with lots of charm which basically fits the bill for what many people describe as "European." (With very interesting history might I add) I want to understand different cultures and I want to see foreign lands. I can say I definitely accomplished that goal in this trip. But I don't plan on stopping. I'm actually staying in Europe to travel for another week. Not as much time as I wish but one must take their chances.
One must take their chances. Words to live by.
